"William Lyon Mackenzie King had a long political career. He was leader of the Liberal Party for 29 eventful years through the buoyant expansion of the 1920s, the depression of the 1930s, the shock of World War II, and then the post-war reconstruction, and for 21 of these years he was Canada’s prime minister. His decisions during this time contributed significantly to the shaping of Canada and to its development as an influential middle power in world affairs. During his lifetime his achievements were sometimes obscured by a style notable for its compromises. After his death his political career was sometimes overshadowed by the revelation of his unsuspected personal idiosyncrasies."
Published
1 p. (of 4, folded leaf); 17 x 13 cm.
Printed letterhead: Laurier House, Ottawa.
Handwritten letter from William Lyon Mackenzie King to his nephew Arthur King on December 20, 1925. King sends wishes of the season, tells Arthur to write about his presents and “all the happiness of the day, and also about what you are reading and most thinking of, and what you have decided to be when you grow up.” He notes that Arthur had been in hospital with a broken arm the Christmas before and hopes it is better.
Salutation: “My dear Arthur”; Signature: “Your loving uncle, Willie.”
Donated by John English in 2019.